Scaling Photogrammetric and GPS-Based Approaches for Streamflow Monitoring in Natural Channels
Faculty Mentor Information
Jeffrey Cooper, College of Southern Idaho
Presentation Date
7-16-2026
Abstract
Water in the Intermountain West is a limited resource. Water budgets are used to determine allocation and distribution for all uses and require precise inputs. One precise input is flow measurements from open channels. Historical methods of measurement include velocity meters, weirs, gaging stations, and flumes. Open channels pose a particular set of challenges, primarily due to limited access and the inability to construct permanent structures. One potential solution is to utilize inexpensive sUAS (drones) to take imagery that can be tied to the water elevation in a controlled section. Controlled section establishment is non-permanent, and measurements can be taken significantly quicker than utilizing velocity meters. The purpose of this research was to determine if such a method could be used to accurately make flow measurements in these controlled sections.
Scaling Photogrammetric and GPS-Based Approaches for Streamflow Monitoring in Natural Channels
Water in the Intermountain West is a limited resource. Water budgets are used to determine allocation and distribution for all uses and require precise inputs. One precise input is flow measurements from open channels. Historical methods of measurement include velocity meters, weirs, gaging stations, and flumes. Open channels pose a particular set of challenges, primarily due to limited access and the inability to construct permanent structures. One potential solution is to utilize inexpensive sUAS (drones) to take imagery that can be tied to the water elevation in a controlled section. Controlled section establishment is non-permanent, and measurements can be taken significantly quicker than utilizing velocity meters. The purpose of this research was to determine if such a method could be used to accurately make flow measurements in these controlled sections.